Flying Lead Connector and Method for Making Subsea Connections

ABSTRACT

The present invention generally provides a rigid flying lead. The improved flying lead arrangement is configured to provide fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a marine body. In one embodiment, the flying lead includes a first substantially rigid end kit disposed at a first end of the flying lead, and a second substantially rigid end kit disposed at a second end of the flying lead. A substantially rigid midsection is defined between the first end kit and the second end kit. At least one, and preferably multiple, fluid communication lines are disposed within the midsection, providing fluid communication between the two items of subsea equipment. Examples of subsea equipment include an umbilical end termination, a subsea distribution unit, a subsea tree and a manifold. The flying lead is configured to be lowered into a marine body using a spreader bar so that junction plates on the respective end kits can be gravitationally landed into respective junction plate receptacles.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/571,276, filed 14 May, 2004.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to subsea connections. Such connections may include subsea tie-in monitoring lines, control lines and chemical injection lines. Embodiments of the present invention further pertain to methods for making subsea connections using flying lead connectors.

2. Description of Related Art

Over the last thirty years, the search for oil and gas offshore has moved into progressively deeper waters. Wells are now commonly drilled at depths of several hundred feet and even several thousand feet below the surface of the ocean. In addition, wells are now being drilled in more remote offshore locations.

The drilling and maintenance of deep and remote offshore wells is expensive. In an effort to reduce drilling and maintenance expenses, remote offshore wells are oftentimes drilled in clusters. A grouping of wells in a clustered subsea arrangement is sometimes referred to as a “well-site.” A well-site typically includes producing wells completed for production at one and oftentimes more pay zones. In addition, a well-site will oftentimes include one or more injection wells to aid in maintaining reservoir pressure for water drive and gas expansion drive reservoirs.

The grouping of subsea wells facilitates the gathering of production fluids into a local production manifold. Fluids from the clustered wells are delivered to the manifold through flowlines called “jumpers.” From the manifold, production fluids may be delivered together to a gathering facility through a flow-line. The clustering of wells also allows for multiple control lines and chemical treatment lines to be run from the ocean surface, downward to the clustered wells through one or more “umbilicals.” The umbilical terminates at an “umbilical termination assembly,” or “UTA,” at the ocean floor The control line may carry hydraulic fluid used for controlling items of subsea equipment such as subsea distribution units (“SDU's”), manifolds and trees. Such control lines allow the actuation of valves, chokes, downhole safety valves and other subsea components from the surface. In addition, the umbilical may transmit chemical inhibitors to the ocean floor and then to equipment of the subsea processing system. The inhibitors are designed and provided in order to ensure that flow from the wells is not affected by the formation of solids in the flow stream such as hydrates, waxes and scale. Electrical lines may also be included in an umbilical for monitoring or control of subsea functions.

In order to connect various communication lines, i.e., control lines and chemical injection lines, etc., to items of equipment on the ocean floor, special connectors known as “flying leads” are oftentimes employed. The flying leads connect the ends of lines to subsea equipment, such as connecting to a control pod on a manifold or subsea tree at one end to an umbilical termination assembly at the other end. In shallow water, flying leads are connected to the subsea equipment by divers. In deeper waters, one or more remote operated vehicles (ROV) are utilized.

Different configurations for flying leads are presently available. Two general types of flying leads for interconnecting the elements of a subsea cluster production system are Hydraulic Flying Leads, or “HFL's,” and Steel Flying Leads, or “SFL's.” Both types of leads may house lines for monitoring, control and, when necessary, chemical injection in the subsea system. Each type of lead has benefits and limitations.

HFL leads commonly are made up of thermoplastic hoses of various sizes and configurations. In one known arrangement, a nylon “Type 11” internal pressure sheath is utilized as the inner layer. A reinforcement layer is provided around the internal pressure sheath. One material used as the reinforcement layer is a double braided aramid fiber, such as Kevlar. A polyurethane outer sheath is bonded to the Kevlar. The polyurethane sheath provides water proofing. Where additional collapse resistance is needed, a stainless steel internal carcass is disposed within the internal pressure sheath. An example of such an internal carcass is a spiral wound interlocked 316 stainless steel carcass.

End fittings are provided on each end of thermoplastic hoses. The end fittings are typically crimped or swaged onto the hose. Connected to the end fittings on each end of the hoses is a multiple quick connect “MQC” junction plate. This MQC plate provides the connection point between subsea equipment and communication lines, and is usually installed last using ROV units subsea. Bend restrictors are commonly added to the respective ends of the hose, as needed. Subject to the use of bend restrictors, HFL leads provide the benefit of flexibility which aids in transportation, handling, and subsea installation. On the other hand, HFL leads have inherent external pressure (collapse) limitations, and can be subject to kinking. In addition, the use of a metallic inner carcass induces large pressure drops across the length of a hose. Further, the connection between the end fitting and the hose requires a reduced diameter that restricts flow, and is susceptible to erosion and clogging. Still further, the HFL hose employs a screw-type fitting that is susceptible to leaking.

SFL leads presently being used commonly define a collection of separate steel tubes bundled within a flexible vented plastic tube. Typically, a “Cobra” type end connection containing a multiple quick connect “MQC” junction plate connection is provided at each end of the tubes. The individual tubes are routed into the respective end connections and welded into socket fittings in the opposing MQC junction plate connections. A bend restrictor is fitted to each end. As noted, the MQC plates provide the final connection point between the subsea components, and are usually installed last by means of ROV units subsea.

Steel flying leads are able to tolerate higher external pressures and lower temperatures. However, they suffer from a lack of flexibility. As of this filing, the largest steel tubing line at the end connection known to the inventors is ½″ in diameter. Larger diameter lines make the end connections too stiff and unmanageable during installation. Additionally, the bend radius required for larger diameter tubing would place the end connections too high above the seabed. Further, conventional steel flying leads are not suitable for heavy wall tubing, as the end connections become too stiff and unmanageable during installation. Conventional SFL's are also difficult to install, and may be damaged during installation. The difficulty of installing the SFL's makes them susceptible to excessive installation vessel downtime. Conventional SFL's further require more offshore equipment on deck of the vessel during installation, which eliminates from consideration some installation vessels with limited deck space. Finally, steel leads are heavier than thermoplastic hoses, meaning that an ROV unit having a greater capacity is required for installation. ROVs having the needed horsepower range are not commonly available, and may further restrict installation vessel options because normally the only available ROVs of this power are permanently mounted on vessels. Alternatively, the number and size of tubes used may be limited due to remote operating vehicle (ROV) constraints.

Installation of an HFL lead or an SFL lead generally requires the use of two ROV units. A first ROV carries an end of the hose and docks to an MQC junction plate receptacle on the subsea equipment. As the first ROV “flies” the end of the HFL to the connection point, a second ROV observes the HFL at the deployment frame in order to prevent damage to the HFL. Once docked, the first ROV installs the HFL MQC junction plate receptacle into an inboard junction plate on the manifold or other subsea equipment.

There is a need for a flying lead arrangement that enjoys the higher pressure ratings of conventional steel flying leads, but is easier to install. There is further a need for a flying lead arrangement that enjoys the pressure capacities of a steel flying lead assembly, but which may optionally utilize flow lines greater than ½″ in diameter, and which optionally may utilize an ROV having a power rating normally associated with a lighter hydraulic flying lead assembly.

SUMMARY

The present invention generally provides a rigid steel flying lead. The improved flying lead arrangement is configured to provide fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a subsea cluster. Non-limiting examples of subsea equipment include an umbilical end termination, a subsea distribution unit, a subsea tree and a manifold. In one embodiment, the flying lead includes a first rigid end kit connected at a first end of the flying lead, and a second rigid end kit connected at a second end of the flying lead. A midsection is defined between the first end kit and the second end kit. At least two, and preferably multiple, fluid communication lines are disposed within the umbilical, providing fluid communication between the two items of subsea equipment. The communication lines comprise steel tubes or other rigid tubulars connected in the first and second end kits and the midsection. Additional communication lines may optionally be employed for providing electrical or optical communication as may be employed for monitoring or control of subsea components and conditions.

The first and second end kits are substantially rigid. This allows them to more securely support opposing ends of the fluid communication lines within the midsection, and allows the communication lines to be fabricated from a rugged material such as steel. The communication lines may also be of various configurations, such has having an internal diameter of one inch or greater. At least one of the communication lines may be fabricated from a heavy wall tubing for conveying fluids under high pressure. Preferably, each end kit houses a collection of separate steel tubes in a structural steel housing, or “casing.” MQC junction plates continue to provide interface between the communication lines and the selected subsea equipment. The rigid end kit configuration allows each end kit to be gravitationally landed into a junction plate receptacle at the respective first and second items of subsea equipment by lowering the flying lead into the marine body with a rigid structural member designed for this task. An example of such a rigid structural member is a spreader bar.

The rigid SFL is optionally equipped with an alignment pin at both end connections. The alignment pin includes a key that lands into a receptacle. The receptacle includes a shoulder, such as a “Y” shoulder or a helical shoulder, that orients the MQC junction plates. The rigid flying lead is thereby caused to pivot at the landing end in order to properly land the SFL at the second end.

A method for making a subsea connection is also provided. A flying lead in accordance with the present invention is placed onto a vessel in a marine body. The respective first and second rigid end kits connect fluid communication lines there between through a substantially rigid and substantially linear midsection. The fluid communication lines may be integral through the midsection and opposing end kits, or may be separate collections of lines that are welded together to form continuous fluid communication lines. Each of the first and second end kits is configured to be gravitationally landed into a receptacle at a respective first and second item of subsea equipment by lowering the flying lead into the marine body with a spreader bar.

The vessel having the flying lead is located at a selected location generally above the first and second items of subsea equipment. The flying lead is releasably secured to a spreader bar. The spreader bar and connected flying lead are then lowered into the marine body. The first end kit is positioned above the first item of subsea equipment, and then landed. Next, the second end kit is positioned above the second item of subsea equipment and landed. Fluid communication is then established between the fluid communication lines of the first end kit and the first item of subsea equipment, and between the fluid communication lines of the second end kit and the second item of subsea equipment. In this manner, fluid communication is established between the first and second items of subsea equipment. In one embodiment, the steps for providing fluid communication are conducted by actuating an MQC junction plate connection with an ROV.

Because the flying lead is supported by the spreader bar, only one ROV is required for landing the flying lead ends to the subsea equipment. In addition, a lower power rating is permitted for the ROV than for many flying lead installation operations. This aspect is further enhanced when the respective end kits include the optional alignment pin. The key on the alignment pin orients the MQC junction plates and rotates the rigid flying lead at one end of the line as needed to align and land the second end. In addition, the same spreader bar and lift rigging used for a flowline jumper installation may be used for the rigid steel flying lead (“SFL”) installation. As the first end is lowered into its receptacle, the alignment key/shoulder assembly helps rotate the second end into proper orientation, resulting in minimal ROV involvement and power requirement. Installation time is thereby minimized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A description of certain embodiments of the inventions is presented below. To aid in this description, drawings are provided, as follows:

FIG. 1 presents a plan view of a subsea cluster production system, or well site. The illustrative cluster production system includes four producing wells, with flowline jumpers delivering produced fluids into a manifold. Flying leads deliver fluids such as hydraulic control fluids or chemical inhibitors to the individual wells and to the manifold through a central distribution unit.

FIG. 2 presents a side view of a flying lead end kit, in one embodiment. The end kit includes a locating pin and an MQC junction plate. The locating pin is positioned over a pin receptacle for landing, while the MQC junction plate is positioned vertically over an MQC junction plate receptacle for landing.

FIGS. 2A and 2B provide enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion of the end kit of FIG. 2 at the interface with the midsection. In FIG. 2A, the connection between the communication lines of the end kit and the communication lines of the midsection are seen, with illustrative elbow joint welds. A lower connection bracket welded to the metal housings is also seen. In FIG. 2B, the open end to the midsection is seen.

FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional view of the flying lead end kit of FIG. 2. Here, the locating pin is about to land into the receptacle. However, the MQC junction plate has not yet landed into the MQC junction plate receptacle.

FIG. 4 presents a next step in the installation of the flying lead of FIG. 2. In this view, the locating pin of the end kit has landed into the receptacle on the subsea equipment. In addition, the MQC junction plate has gravitationally landed into the MQC junction plate receptacle. Couplers remain retracted, indicating that the junction plate is not yet “locked.”

FIG. 5A presents an enlarged, cross-sectional view of an illustrative junction plate landed into the junction plate receptacle. The plate has landed, but fluid communication has not been established through the receptacle. FIG. 5B presents yet a further enlarged cross-sectional view of the plate and receptacle of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A presents an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the junction plate of FIG. 5A, landed into the junction plate receptacle. Here, fluid communication has been established through the receptacle. FIG. 6B presents yet a further enlarged cross-sectional view of the plate and receptacle of FIG. 6A.

FIGS. 7A-7G (1) and (2) provide enlarged, cross-sectional views of the locating pin and receptacle. These figures depict steps for landing and orienting the locating pin into the receptacle. In FIG. 7A(1), the locating pin is positioned vertically over the receptacle. FIG. 7A(2) presents a top view of the locating pin. An orienting key is seen along the outer diameter of the pin.

FIG. 7B is provided to demonstrate that the locating pin is configured to accommodate a degree of misalignment during the landing step.

In FIG. 7C(1), the locating pin is lowered partially into the receptacle. The key on the locating pin has landed onto a helical shoulder in the receptacle. FIG. 7C(2) provides a top view of the pin landing on the helical shoulder.

FIGS. 7D-7F demonstrate the further lowering of the locating pin into the receptacle. The key rides downward along the helical shoulder, providing proper orientation for the flying lead. The “(1)” series of the figures provide a side view, while the “(2)” series figures show a plan view. Finally, in FIGS. 7F(1)-(2) and 7G(1)-(2), the locating pin has fully landed into the receptacle. The key has landed into a bottom slot along the helical shoulder. FIGS. 7F(1)-(2) and FIGS. 7G(1)-(2) provide the same step, but at a different radial side views.

FIG. 8 presents a flying lead end kit, in an alternate embodiment. In this arrangement, a sheer pin is utilized in the locating pin. A swivel joint between the upper housing and the intermediate frame can also be seen. A flex-limiter is optionally disposed at the end of the intermediate frame.

FIGS. 9A-9C are provided to depict installation of an embodiment of the flying lead into a subsea production system. In FIG. 9A, the flying lead is being lowered towards two items of production equipment on an ocean bottom. Each end of the flying lead is being positioned over a respective receptacle. One end is positioned over a receptacle on a subsea tree, while the other end is being positioned over a receptacle on a SDU. FIG. 9B shows that one end kit has landed into the receptacle on the subsea tree. In FIG. 9C, the other end kit has landed into the receptacle on the SDU. Installation of the flying lead is now complete.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the subsea equipment of FIG. 9C. In this view, the subsea tree and the SDU are seen in plan. The spreader bar supporting the flying lead is also seen between the tree and the SDU.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Description of Specific Embodiments

The following provides a description of specific embodiments of the present invention:

A flying lead is provided herein. The flying lead enables fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a marine body. The flying lead generally includes a first substantially rigid end kit disposed at a first end of the flying lead; a second substantially rigid end kit disposed at a second end of the flying lead; and a substantially rigid and substantially linear midsection. The midsection conveys two or more fluid communication lines between the first end kit and the second end kit. In addition, each of the first and second end kits is configured to be landed into a respective first and second item of subsea equipment by lowering the flying lead into the marine body with a spreader bar.

Preferably, each of the first and second end kits of the flying lead has an end kit connector for receiving a releasable connection with the spreader bar. In addition, it is preferred that at least one of the end kits includes a first end and a second end; a junction plate configured to land into a junction plate receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and at least two end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a receptacle on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a respective one of the one or more fluid communication lines in the midsection of the flying lead. Preferably, the junction plate is a multi-coupler junction plate.

Preferably, at least one of the end kits further includes a locating pin configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment. The locating pin, in one embodiment, has a first end connected to a frame of the first end kit; a second end configured to gravitationally land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and a key dimensioned to land on and to ride along a shoulder of the locating pin receptacle.

In one embodiment, at least one of the end kits for the flying lead includes a connector for receiving a releasable connection with the spreader bar; an upper frame section; a multi-coupler junction plate disposed on the upper frame section, and configured to land into a junction plate receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; a lower frame section configured to be attached to the midsection in a substantially horizontal orientation along the bottom of the marine body; an intermediate frame section connected to the upper and lower frame sections; and at least two metal-encased end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with fluid couplers on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with respective fluid communication lines in the midsection of the flying lead. The upper, lower and intermediate frame sections are preferably each fabricated out of a metallic substance. Preferably, the upper frame section and the intermediate frame sections connect to form an essentially right angle. The intermediate frame section may connect to a riser casing, with the riser casing in turn being connected to the lower frame section. A flex-limited connection may be provided between the upper frame section and the intermediate frame section.

In one arrangement of the flying lead, two or more communication lines comprise at least two fluid communication lines having different inner diameters, and at least one of the communication lines is fabricated from heavy wall tubing. In one arrangement, at least one of the two or more communication lines comprises a fluid communication line having an inner diameter of at least one inch.

In another embodiment, a flying lead is disclosed for providing fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a midsection having at least two fluid communication lines. The flying lead generally includes at least one rigid frame section; a connector disposed on the at least one rigid frame section for receiving a releasable connection with a spreader bar; and a multi-coupler junction plate also disposed on the at least one rigid frame section, and configured to gravitationally land into a junction plate receptacle in an item of subsea equipment. In one instance, the end kit includes at least two fluid communication lines, each have a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the end kit fluid communication lines is in fluid communication with a receptacle on the junction plate, while the second end of each of the end kit fluid communication lines is in fluid communication with a respective fluid communication line of the midsection.

The at least one rigid frame section of the end kit may define an upper frame section, an intermediate frame section and a lower frame section, with the junction plate being disposed on the upper frame section, the lower frame section being configured to be attached to the midsection in a substantially horizontal orientation along the bottom of the marine body, and the intermediate frame section being connected to the upper and lower frame sections. In addition, the end kit may further comprise at least two metal-encased end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines is in fluid communication with a respective receptacle on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the end kit fluid communication lines is in fluid communication with a respective fluid communication line of the midsection.

A method for installing a flying lead is also provided. The method generally includes the steps of placing a flying lead onto a vessel, the flying lead having first and second opposite rigid end kits, and a substantially rigid and substantially linear midsection disposed there between. Each of the first and second end kits is configured to be landed into a receptacle at a respective first and second item of subsea equipment by lowering the flying lead into the marine body with a spreader bar. Additional steps include locating the vessel at a selected location generally above the first and second items of subsea equipment; releasably securing the flying lead to a spreader bar; lowering the spreader bar and connected flying lead into the marine body; positioning the first end kit above the first item of subsea equipment; landing the first end kit into the first item of subsea equipment; establishing fluid communication between a fluid communication line of the first end it, and the first item of subsea equipment; positioning the second end kit above the second item of subsea equipment; landing the second end kit into the second item of subsea equipment; and establishing fluid communication between a fluid communication line of the second end kit, and the second item of subsea equipment, thereby establishing fluid communication between the first and second items of subsea equipment.

In one embodiment, the step of releasing the flying lead from the spreader bar is conducted before the step of establishing fluid communication between the fluid communication line of the first end kit and the first item of subsea equipment. In another embodiment, the method further provides the step of delivering fluid from the first item of subsea equipment to the second item of subsea equipment through the flying lead. In another embodiment, the step of establishing fluid communication between the fluid communication line of the first end kit and the first item of subsea equipment is accomplished by using an ROV after the junction plate on the first item of subsea equipment has gravitationally landed into the receptacle on the first item of subsea equipment.

The first item of subsea equipment may be selected from the group consisting of an umbilical end termination, a subsea distribution unit, a subsea tree and a manifold. The fluid may be selected from the group consisting of hydraulic control fluid, chemical treatment fluid, and gas for gas lift valves.

Definitions

The following words and phrases are specifically defined for purposes of the descriptions and claims herein. To the extent a claim term has not been defined, it should be given its broadest definition that persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications, dictionaries and issued patents.

“Flying lead” means any assembly that transports or communicates either hydraulic (or other) control fluid, chemicals, electrically conductive wiring, fiber optic lines, or any combination thereof, between two items of subsea equipment. However, the term “flying lead” excludes fluid connection apparatuses that transport production fluids, such as “flowline jumpers.”

“Subsea equipment” means any item of equipment placed proximate the bottom of a marine body as part of a subsea well-site.

“Midsection” means any collection of lines for providing hydraulic, chemical, fiber optic or electrical communication through a marine body. In addition, the term “midsection” includes integrated lines that provide any combination of hydraulic, chemical, fiber optic or electrical communication. The midsection may have a steel fabricated casing, a thermoplastic sheath, or be composed of any other material that will provide for a substantially rigid connection between first and second end kits of a flying lead.

“End kit” means an assembly on a flying lead for providing fluid communication between an item of subsea equipment, and communication lines within a midsection.

“Marine body” means any body of water, such as salt water in an ocean environment, or fresh water in a lake. Similarly, “subsea” includes both an ocean body and a deepwater lake.

“Umbilical termination assembly” means any item of subsea equipment that provides a termination point for one or more umbilical lines. The umbilical termination assembly, or “UTA,” may be placed on an ocean bottom, a mud mat, a manifold, a suction pile, or any other position proximate to the sea floor.

“Subsea distribution unit” means any item of subsea equipment that provides at least hydraulic and/or chemical distribution in a subsea production system.

“Subsea distribution unit” may be abbreviated as “SDU” or “SDU.”

“Subsea tree” means any collection of valves disposed over a wellhead in a water body.

“Manifold” means any item of subsea equipment that gathers produced fluids from one or more subsea trees, and delivers those fluids to a separate collection point through a flowline.

“Spreader bar” means any elongated tool for suspending opposing end kits and a connected midsection.

“Junction plate” means any apparatus that provides a quick-connect for placing multiple set of communication lines in communication with another set of communication lines. The communication lines may include lines for communicating hydraulic fluid, chemicals, electrical signals and fiber optic signals.

Description of Embodiments Shown in the Drawings

Described herein are flying leads for connecting subsea equipment. Also described are methods for connecting subsea equipment.

FIG. 1 presents a plan view of a subsea cluster production system, or well site 10. The illustrative subsea well-site 10 includes four wells 12, 14, 16, 18. The illustrated wells 12, 14, 16, 18 represent producing wells. Flowlines, or “tree jumpers,” 22 deliver produced fluids from the individual wells 12, 14, 16, 18 to a manifold 20. The manifold 20 collects the produced fluids from the individual wells 12, 14, 16, 18. In one arrangement, production collected from jumpers 22 may be commingled, and then delivered to either or both of production sleds 34. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1, production is selectively commingled, meaning that some production is delivered to one of the first sleds 34, and some production is commingled and delivered to the other of sleds 34. An additional second production sled 32 may optionally be provided for future cluster 10 expansion. Production would then be delivered to the sleds 32, 34 via flowlines 24. From the sleds 34, production is transported through flowlines 38 up to an offshore host platform (not shown). Export flowline 36 may be provided in the future, and is shown in broken lines to indicate that it is not currently installed in the subsea cluster 10.

The subsea cluster production system 10 of FIG. 1 is intended to be for purposes of example only. It is understood that more or less than four wells may be clustered at the well site 10. In addition, it is understood that one or more of the wells 12, 14, 16, 18 may be injection wells (water or gas) rather than production wells, though the production system 10 would require a different flowline architecture. Still further, it is understood that production may be commingled into a single flowline at a manifold and delivered directly to the offshore gathering facility (such as an FPSO, not shown), or even to a land-based gathering facility. In addition, it is understood that the manifold 20 may or may not have extra slots for future wells or for tie-ins from other fields. The exemplary manifold 20 includes slot 23 reserved for tie in with a new flowline, to be potentially delivered in the future to a fourth sled (not shown).

It is desirable for the operator of the subsea production system 10 to be able to remotely control valves at the manifold 20. It is also desirable that the operator be able to monitor subsea conditions such as fluid temperature within the manifold 20. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that manifold and sled designs vary in sophistication and complexity, and may include complex control and distribution systems, sometimes known as “control pods.” Control pods are modules that contain electro-hydraulic controls, logic software, and communication signal devices. A master computer in a host platform control room (not shown) communicates with the subsea control pods to operate the valves and other functions on the manifold to increase or reduce flow rates, or to shut in the flow entirely, if needed.

It is desirable that the operator also be able to inject chemicals into the manifold and the individual wellheads to maintain flow assurance. Those of ordinary skill in the art understand that in both oil and gas wells, water present in the produced fluids can form natural gas hydrates. Hydrates are a crystallized form of water and methane stabilized by high pressure. In addition, at low temperatures the waxy paraffins in some crude oils deposit on pipeline walls, constricting flows. To overcome these conditions, the operator may inject paraffin inhibitors to keep paraffins and waxes from solidifying or depositing in the flow streams. In addition, the operator may inject methanol or glycol to serve as a form of “antifreeze,” preventing hydrates from forming. Further, the operator may inject scale inhibitors and corrosion inhibitors through flowline jumpers and subsea equipment.

FIG. 1 shows line 42′ delivered from the host platform or other source to an umbilical termination assembly (“UTA”) 40′. Line 42′ represents an integrated electrical/hydraulic umbilical. Line 42′ provides conductive wires for providing power to subsea equipment, and also provides hydraulic fluid needed to power subsea functions. Exemplary line 42′ also provides fiber optic or electrical signal lines for monitoring well or other condition requirements. Finally, line 42′ may in the future provide chemicals to be distributed through the system 10. Line 42′ terminates at the umbilical termination assembly 40′. From the SDU 50, flying lead line 44′ delivers fluids and, optionally, signals to a “UTA” 40. From the SDU 50, flying leads 52, 54, 56, 58 connect to the individual wells 12, 14, 16, 18, respectively. In addition, flying lead 55 connects to the manifold 20 to deliver chemicals and to provide power or control, as desired by the operator.

Certain components are included in FIG. 1 in broken lines. Line 42″ represents a possible future hydraulic umbilical, delivering hydraulic fluid to future termination box 40″. From the termination box 40″, flying lead line 44″ also delivers fluids to the SDU 50. Line 42″, box 40″ and flying lead 44″ are shown in broken lines to indicate that they are not yet installed into the subsea cluster 10.

The flying leads 52, 54, 55, 56, 58 of FIG. 1 represent lines that are delivered by a spreader bar and an ROV 930 in accordance with teachings herein. Each flying lead 52, 54, 55, 56, 58 includes a midsection (described below as component 130), and opposing end kit sections (described below as components 110 and 210, respectively). These three components 110, 210, 130 are seen together in the side views of FIGS. 9A-9C. The flying leads 52, 54, 55, 56, 58 may be low pressure hydraulic lines that deliver chemicals, or they may be power lines for delivering electrical or hydraulic power to subsea equipment such as wellhead valves. The flying leads 52, 54, 55, 56, 58 can also provide high pressure flow lines. The flying leads 52, 54, 55, 56, 58 may include fiber optic or electrical lines for monitoring subsea sensors. In addition, the flying leads 52, 54, 55, 56, 58 may be integrated, providing combinations of the above functions.

FIG. 2 presents a side view of a flying lead end kit 110, in one embodiment. The end kit 110 is substantially rigid, providing support for one or more steel-encased communication lines 115. In this embodiment, rigidity is provided by various metal frame structures. These frame structures include a lower housing 118, an upper housing 113, and an intermediate housing 112. The end kit 110, in one arrangement, is welded to the midsection 130. A lower connection bracket 111 provides additional support between the lower housing 118 and a riser casing 112′ around the intermediate housing 112. In addition, an upper arm 114 provides additional support for the upper housing 113.

The dimensions of the end kit 110 and its supporting frames 112 and 114 are determined based upon known dimensions of the subsea equipment in which the end kit 110 is to be landed. The corresponding item of subsea equipment is not shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2. However, illustrative items of subsea equipment are shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, as will be described below.

Measurements for spacing and orientation of subsea equipment are typically performed using a remote operated vehicle (“ROV”) after subsea installation. The measurements may be performed at the same time well and flowline jumpers are measured, with the same field proven acoustic and taut line Pre-Measurement Tool (“PMT”) equipment and techniques. The same measurement data may be used for fabricating jumpers and the flying lead 100, except that the PMT azimuth angle, which is disregarded for jumper fabrication in some cases, is used in fabricating the flying lead 100. Performing flying lead measurements at the same time that the jumpers are measured reduces installation cost. The measurements provide a “straight line” distance between the subsea components. The rigid design allows constructing the flying lead 100 in the same straight line, resulting in the shortest possible midsection 130 length. This further reduces installation costs, as well as fabrication costs.

Referring again to FIG. 2, an optional intermediate frame 116 connected to the upper housing 113 may be provided. The intermediate frame 116 surrounds the intermediate housing 112 at an upper end. In this instance, an upper end of the intermediate housing 112 is secured to the upper housing 113 by a swivel joint 116′. The swivel joint 116″ allows the intermediate housing 112 a permissible amount of play relative to the upper housing 113. This, in turn, accommodates minor deviations in subsea geography from PMT data measurements. In addition, a separate riser casing may be provided to surround and support the intermediate housing 112. Such a riser casing is shown at 112′ in FIG. 2. Longitudinal play is permitted between the intermediate housing 112 and surrounding riser casing 112′ during fabrication and before subsea deployment so that an appropriate vertical dimension for the flying lead 110 may be acquired.

FIGS. 2A and 2B provide enlarged cross-sectional views of the end kit 110 of FIG. 2. In FIG. 2A, the connection between the communication lines 115 of the end kit 110 and the communication lines 135 of the midsection 130 are seen, with illustrative elbow joint welds 133. The lower connection bracket 111 welded to the metal riser casing 112′ and lower frame 118 is also more fully seen. In the preferred practice, the lower frame 118 is welded to the mid-section 130 after the correct horizontal distance is obtained. The lower connection bracket 111 is then lowered over the lower frame 118 and fastened.

In FIG. 2B, an open end of the midsection 130 is seen. It is important to note that, because of the rigid flying lead 100 fabrication, certain communication lines 135′ may be dimensioned to be larger and more pressure-resistant than currently employed communication lines. Currently, known steel communication lines for flying leads do not exceed ½ inches in diameter. Lines 135′ are intended to represent metal-encased communication lines having a diameter of two or more inches. This new and larger geometry allows the flying lead 100 to communicate larger amounts of chemicals required in some fields without affecting the installation operation. For example, in some remote offshore locations, temperatures at the ocean bottom are so cold as to cause hydrates to form, even when glycol or methanol is being injected through a ½ inch line. Increasing the size of the communication line 135′ allows larger amounts of glycol or methanol to be injected, thereby inhibiting hydrate formation.

To provide further structural support for the enlarged metal-encased communication lines 135′, a support member 138 may be placed in the midsection 130. In FIG. 2B, the support member 138 is seen in cross-section, and is shaped as an “I-Beam”.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the end kit 110 next includes a junction plate 140. The junction plate 140 is designed to provide fluid communication between the various communication lines 115 of the first end kit 110, and valves or lines (not shown in FIG. 2) in an item of subsea equipment (also not shown in FIG. 2). The junction plate 140 lands into a junction plate receptacle 142. The junction plate 140 includes connectors 144 for enabling fluid communication from the communication lines 115 of the end kit 110. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that an ROV may then in one embodiment be utilized in order to enable the latching of the junction plate 140 into the receptacle 142 in order to provide operational fluid communication.

In the arrangement of the end kit 110 of FIG. 2, the junction plate 140 is a multi-quick connect junction plate, or “MQC junction plate.” The MQC junction plate 140 is placed at an end of the end kit 110 along the upper arm 114. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the arrangement for a junction plate, or the precise location of the junction plate along the end kit 110. The present invention only requires that the junction plate 140 be gravitationally landed into the receptacle 142.

In order to enable actuation of the junction plate 140, an indexing arm 119 is disposed along the upper frame arm 114. The indexing arm 119 provides a point of latching for an ROV (not seen) in order to do its work on the junction plate 140.

FIG. 5A presents an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the junction plate 140 landed into a junction plate receptacle 142. The plate 140 has landed, but fluid communication has not been established with the receptacle 142. FIG. 5B presents yet a further enlarged cross-sectional view of the plate 140 of FIG. 5A. It can be seen from FIGS. 5A and 5B that a collet arrangement is utilized in the landing of the junction plate 140. Collet arms 146 are seen in cross-section.

FIG. 6A presents another enlarged, cross-sectional view of the junction plate 140. The plate is again landed into the junction plate receptacle 142. Fluid communication has now been established with the receptacle 142. FIG. 6B presents yet a further enlarged cross-sectional view of the plate 140 and the receptacle 142 of FIG. 6A.

Referring again to FIG. 2, a locating and orienting assembly 160 is preferably provided for the end kit 110. In the arrangement of FIG. 2, the locating feature is a guide pin 168. The locating pin 168 is connected to the end kit 110. The locating pin 168 is dimensioned to land into a pin receptacle 162 that is fabricated into an item of subsea equipment.

In the arrangement of FIG. 2, the locating pin 168 is connected to the upper housing 113. The pin 168 is disposed between the junction plate 140 and the intermediate housing 112. However, it is again understood that the precise location of the locating assembly 160 is a matter of designer's choice. The present invention only requires that, if employed, the locating assembly 160 enable location on subsea equipment through gravitational urging.

FIGS. 7A-8D provide enlarged, cross-sectional views of the locating assembly 160. These figures depict steps for landing the locating pin 168 into the receptacle 162, and orienting the flying lead 100. In FIG. 7A, the locating pin 168 is positioned vertically over the receptacle 162, ready to be landed. It can be seen that the pin 168 includes an upper plate 161. The upper plate 161 provides a body for a welding connection with the upper housing 113 and also serves as a stop member. The pin 168 also includes a spherical body 163 at its lower end. The spherical end 163 permits some degree, e.g., 10 degrees, of misalignment in the approach angle.

The locating pin 168 includes an optional key 164. The key 164 is dimensioned to engage a corresponding shoulder 166 within the receptacle 162. If the flying lead 100 is not properly oriented as the pin 168 of the first end kit 110 is landed into the first item of subsea equipment, the key 164 will force the flying lead 100 to reorient as the key 164 rides downward along the receptacle shoulder 166. Ultimately, the key 164 will engage a slot 165 within the receptacle 162 at the angle of proper orientation.

As can be seen, FIG. 7A is broken into two drawings, to with, FIGS. 7A(1) and 7A(2). FIG. 7A(1) provides a side view of the locating assembly 160, while FIG. 7A(2) provides a plan view. It is to be understood that the pin 168/receptacle 162 arrangement of FIGS. 7A(1) and 7A(2) is exemplary only, and that other arrangements may be employed.

FIG. 7C-7G are provided to demonstrate the landing of the pin 168 into the receptacle 162. The “(1)” series figures provide progressive side views, while the “(2)” series figures provide corresponding plan views. In FIGS. 7C(1)-(2), the locating pin 168 is being further lowered into the receptacle 162. The key 164 is riding downward along the helical shoulder 166, providing proper orientation for the flying lead (seen at 100 in FIG. 9A). In FIGS. 7F(1)-(2), the pin 168 has fully landed into the receptacle 162. The key 164 has landed into a bottom slot 165 along the helical shoulder. FIGS. 7F(1)-(2), provide the same step as FIGS. 7G(1)-(2), but at a different radial side view. It is noted that in the embodiment shown in the FIG. 7 series, the receptacle 162 is round, and includes a helically-shaped shoulder 166 for directing the key 164. However, the present inventions are not limited by this landing configuration. In this respect, the receptacle could be a “Y”-shaped receptacle having a recess for receiving the fully landed key 164.

Returning again to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the junction plate 140 is disposed vertically over the receptacle 142 on an item of subsea equipment (not shown). Likewise, the locating pin 168 is disposed vertically over the receptacle 162 on the item of subsea equipment. The tip 163 of the pin 168 is being received within an upper conical opening 167 in the receptacle 162. The upper conical opening 167 aides in placement of the locating pin 168.

Moving to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 demonstrates a next step in the landing of the end kit 110 into an item of subsea equipment (not shown). FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional view of the flying lead end kit 110 of FIG. 2. Here, the locating pin 168 has landed into the receptacle 162. However, the MQC junction plate 140 has not yet landed into the junction plate receptacle 142.

FIG. 4 presents a next step in the installation of the flying lead end kit 110 of FIG. 2. In this view, the locating pin 168 has completely landed into the receptacle 162 on the item of subsea equipment. In addition, the junction plate 140 has landed into the junction plate receptacle 142 and is shown locked. The end kit 110 is now ready to have fluid communication established between the fluid communication line 115 and the item of subsea equipment through actuation of an ROV (not seen).

FIG. 8 presents a flying lead end kit 110, in an alternate embodiment. In this arrangement, a sheer pin 169 is utilized in the locating pin 168. The shear pin 169 is employed as an optional feature to aid in later retrieval of the flying lead 100. In this respect, if the end kit 110 cannot be cleanly removed due to moment that might be acting through the locating pin 168, the shear pin will break, releasing the upper housing 113 from the locating assembly 160.

It should also be noted that in FIG. 8, the swivel joint 116′ between the upper housing 113 and the intermediate frame 116 can also be more clearly seen. A flex-limiter 170 is optionally disposed at the end of the intermediate frame 112′. In this manner, the rigidity of the end kit 110 is maintained, allowing the use of steel-fabricated fluid lines 115. In the arrangement of FIG. 8, the flex-limiter 170 defines a bushing inserted along an inner diameter of the intermediate frame 116. However, other arrangements may be provided. For example, adjusting the length or inner diameter of the intermediate frame will affect the degree of swivel of the intermediate housing 112.

FIGS. 9A-9C are provided to depict installation of an embodiment of the flying lead 100 into a subsea production system. Each of these figures presents a side view of a flying lead 100 being connected to items of subsea equipment on an ocean bottom 5. Each end kit 110, 210 is being positioned over a respective receptacle 162, 262. In this example, one receptacle 162 is integrated into a subsea tree 940, while the second receptacle 262 is integrated into a SDU 950.

In FIG. 9A, the flying lead 100 is being lowered onto an illustrative bed, such as the ocean bottom 5. The flying lead 100 is being connected to first and second items of subsea equipment, shown at 940 and 950. The purpose is to place the first item of subsea equipment 940, e.g., a subsea tree on a well 944, in fluid communication with a second item of subsea equipment 950, e.g., a SDU. As discussed above, dimensions for the end kits 110 and 210, as well as the midsection 130, have been previously determined so that the flying lead 100 may be prefabricated. Preferably, the flying lead 100 is assembled prior to delivery onto a delivery vessel. The flying lead 100 is dimensioned so that the junction plate 140 on the first end kit 110 will land into a junction plate receptacle 142 on the first item of subsea equipment 940, and the junction plate 240 on the second end kit 210 will land into a junction plate receptacle 242 on the second item of subsea equipment 950. At the same time, the midsection 130 will substantially rest along the ocean bottom 5. Because the first 110 and second 210 end kits are substantially or relatively rigid, the communication lines connecting the subsea tree 940 and the SDU 950 can be of sufficient size to handle large amounts of chemicals or other fluids. At the same time, the lines can be “thick walled” to handle high pressure as required in some fields without affecting installation.

As can be seen from FIG. 9A, the flying lead 100 is configured to be lowered onto the ocean bottom 5 by means of a spreader bar. A spreader bar is shown at 910. The spreader bar 910 defines a rigid and elongated tool having adjustable connectors 918 at opposing ends. In one arrangement, a chain 914 descends from each of the opposing end connectors 918, and releasably attaches to an end kit connector 117, 217 on the respective end kits 110, 210. Releasable connections 912 are provided between the support wires 914 and the end kit connectors 117, 217. In this way, the flying lead 100 can be landed on the equipment subsea. An example of an end connector is a pad eye.

It can be seen that the spreader bar 910 is lowered into the marine body by a collection of support wires. These wires may include a central support line 917, lateral support wires 916 and a hoisting line 915. A buoy 180 may optionally be integrated into the spreader bar system. In the view of FIG. 9A, a buoy 180 is disposed below the spreader bar 910, and is connected to the spreader bar 910 by a central buoy line 184. The central buoy line 184 extends below the buoy through line 182, and connects to the midsection 130. In this manner, the central portion of the midsection 130 is supported while the flying lead 100 is being lowered onto the ocean bottom 5.

At the step in FIG. 9A, the locating pin 168 has been positioned vertically over the receptacle 162. If the midsection 130 is not properly oriented to allow the second end kit 210 to land on the SDU 950, then the key orienting arrangement 164/166 described above will provide proper orientation. In addition, placement of the locating pin 168 into the receptacle 162 at proper angular orientation provides that the junction plate 140 on the first end 110 will properly latch into the junction plate receptacle 142. An ROV (not shown) may be used to guide the pins 168, 268 into the respective receptacles 162, 262.

FIG. 9B shows the next step in the installation of the flying lead 100. In FIG. 9B, the locating pin 168 has gravitationally landed into the first receptacle 162. In addition, the junction plate 140 has latched into the junction plate receptacle 142. However, it can be seen that the second end kit 210 has not yet landed into the SDU 950. The midsection 130 remains suspended above the ocean bottom 5.

Turning finally to FIG. 9C, the locating pin 268 in the second end kit 210 has landed into the second receptacle 262. Likewise, the junction plate 240 has latched into the junction plate receptacle 242. Thus, the flying lead 100 has been mechanically installed into the subsea production system. The midsection 130 may now rest on the ocean bottom 5.

It should be noted that merely because the flying lead 100 has been gravitationally landed into a subsea production system 10 does not mean that fluid communication has been established between first 940 and second 950 items of subsea equipment. In the preferred embodiment, an ROV is utilized to actuate the junction plates 140, 240. Actuation of the junction plates 140, 240 provides fluid communication between the items of subsea equipment 940, 950 and the intermediate flow lines 115, 215, 135. An ROV can be seen above the SDU 950 at 930 in FIG. 9C.

Finally, FIG. 10 is provided in order to show a top view of the flying lead being landed into a subsea tree 940 and a SDU 950. In this view, opposing end kits 110, 120 are seen. In addition, the spreader bar 910 is visible. The underlying midsection 130 is hidden by the spreader bar 910.

In addition to the flying lead 100 disclosed herein, a method for installing a flying lead is also provided. The flying lead is configured to provide fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a marine body. The flying lead is placed onto a vessel, and the vessel is located generally above the first and second items of subsea equipment. The flying lead would be as described in the embodiments above, and as claimed below.

The flying lead is secured to a spreader bar. The spreader bar with connected flying lead is then lowered from the vessel and downward into the marine body towards the subsea bottom. The first end kit to the flying lead is positioned above the first item of subsea equipment. Likewise, the second end kit is positioned above the second item of subsea equipment. Positioning may be done with a launched ROV.

The first end kit is landed into the first item of subsea equipment. More specifically, the junction plate on the first end kit is landed into a junction place receptacle on the first item of subsea equipment. Use of a locating and orienting assembly such as the one described above may be optionally employed.

The junction plate on the second end kit is positioned over a junction plate receptacle on the second item of subsea equipment. The junction plate on the second end kit is then gravitationally landed into the junction plate receptacle for the second item of subsea equipment. At that point, mechanical landing of the flying lead between first and second items of subsea equipment has been accomplished.

In one embodiment, the mechanical landing of the flying lead onto opposing items of subsea equipment also establishes fluid communication between the first and second items of subsea equipment. However, it is preferred that separate steps be taken to actuate fluid communication between fluid communication lines of the first end kit and the first item of subsea equipment, and between fluid communication lines of the second end kit and the second item of subsea equipment. These actuation steps may also be accomplished through use of an ROV as is known in the art.

In one arrangement, the present rigid flying lead reduces leaks due to the all-welded construction. Because the present SFL is rigid, the encased lines can be larger to handle increased amounts of chemicals required in some fields. The lines can also be “thick walled” to withstand high collapse pressures encountered in some fields without affecting installation. The rigid steel casing provides protection to the steel tubes at all times during offshore handling and installation. It also provides protection to the couplers at all times, including the landing operation.

A description of certain embodiments of the inventions has been presented above. However, the scope of the inventions is defined by the claims that follow. Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. 

1. A flying lead for providing fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a marine body, the flying lead comprising: a first substantially rigid end kit disposed at a first end of the flying lead; a second substantially rigid end kit disposed at a second end of the flying lead; and a substantially rigid and substantially linear midsection providing two or more fluid communication lines between the first end kit and the second end kit; wherein each of the first and second end kits is configured to be landed into a respective first and second item of subsea equipment by lowering the flying lead into the marine body with a spreader bar.
 2. The flying lead of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second end kits comprises: an end kit connector for receiving a releasable connection with the spreader bar.
 3. The flying lead of claim 2, wherein the end kit connector on each of the first and second end kits defines a pad eye.
 4. The flying lead of claim 1, wherein the first end kit comprises: a first end and a second end; a junction plate configured to land into a junction plate receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and at least two end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a receptacle on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a respective one of the one or more fluid communication lines in the midsection of the flying lead.
 5. The flying lead of claim 4, wherein: the junction plate is a multi-coupler junction plate; and the at least one two kit communications line comprise at least two separate metal-encased communication lines.
 6. The flying lead of claim 1, wherein the first end kit comprises: a first end and a second end; a multi-coupler junction plate disposed proximate to the first end of the first end kit, and configured to land into a junction plate receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and at least two metal-encased end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a receptacle on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a respective fluid communication line in the midsection of the flying lead.
 7. The flying lead of claim 7, wherein the first end kit further comprises: a locating pin configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment.
 8. The flying lead of claim 1, further comprising a locating pin for a locating assembly.
 9. The flying lead of claim 8, wherein the locating pin further comprises: a first end connected to a frame of the first end kit; and a second end configured to gravitationally land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment.
 10. The flying lead of claim 1, further comprising a locating pin, the locating pin having: a first end connected to a frame of the first end kit; a second end configured to gravitationally land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and a key dimensioned to land on and to ride along a shoulder of the locating pin receptacle.
 11. The flying lead of claim 1, wherein the first end kit comprises: a connector for receiving a releasable connection with the spreader bar; an upper frame section; a multi-coupler junction plate disposed on the upper frame section, and configured to land into a junction plate receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; a lower frame section configured to be attached to the midsection in a substantially horizontal orientation along the bottom of the marine body; an intermediate frame section connected to the upper and lower frame sections; and at least two metal-encased end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with fluid couplers on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with respective fluid communication lines in the midsection of the flying lead.
 12. The flying lead of claim 11, wherein the upper, lower and intermediate frame sections are each fabricated out of a metallic substance.
 13. The flying lead of claim 11, wherein the upper frame section and the intermediate frame sections connect to form an essentially right angle.
 14. The flying lead of claim 11, wherein the intermediate frame section connects to a riser casing, the riser casing in turn being connected to the lower frame section.
 15. The flying lead of claim 11, further comprising a bushing providing a flex-limited connection between the upper frame section and the intermediate frame section.
 16. The flying lead of claim 6, wherein: the two or more communication lines comprises at least two fluid communication lines having different inner diameters; and at least one of the communication lines is fabricated from heavy wall tubing.
 17. The flying lead of claim 6, wherein at least one of the two or more communication lines comprises a fluid communication line having an inner diameter of at least one inch.
 18. An end kit for a flying lead, the flying lead providing fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a midsection having at least two fluid communication lines, the end kit comprising: at least one rigid frame section; a connector disposed on the at least one rigid frame section for receiving a releasable connection with a spreader bar; and a multi-coupler junction plate also disposed on the at least one rigid frame section, and configured to gravitationally land into a junction plate receptacle in an item of subsea equipment.
 19. The end kit of claim 18, wherein the connector on the at least one rigid frame section defines a pad eye.
 20. The end kit of claim 18, further comprising at least two fluid communication lines each have a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the end kit fluid communication lines being in fluid communication with a receptacle on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the end kit fluid communication lines being in fluid communication with a respective fluid communication line of the midsection.
 21. The end kit of claim 18, further comprising a locating pin configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the item of subsea equipment.
 22. The end kit of claim 21, wherein the locating pin has a first end connected to the at least one rigid frame section, and a second end configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment.
 23. The end kit of claim 18, wherein: the at least one rigid frame section defines an upper frame section, an intermediate frame section and a lower frame section, with the junction plate being disposed on the upper frame section, the lower frame section being configured to be attached to the midsection in a substantially horizontal orientation along the bottom of the marine body, and the intermediate frame section being connected to the upper and lower frame sections; and wherein the end kit further comprises at least two metal-encased end kit communication lines each having a first end and a second end, the first end of each of the at least two end kit communication lines being in fluid communication with a respective receptacle on the junction plate, and the second end of each of the end kit fluid communication lines being in fluid communication with a respective fluid communication line of the midsection.
 24. The end kit of claim 23, wherein the upper frame section and the intermediate frame section connect to form an essentially right angle.
 25. The end kit of claim 23, wherein the intermediate frame section connects to a riser casing, the riser casing in turn being connected to the lower frame section.
 26. The end kit of claim 23, further comprising a flexible bushing providing a limited-pivoting connection between the upper frame section and the intermediate frame section.
 27. The end kit of claim 18, further comprising a locating assembly.
 28. The end kit of claim 18, further comprising a locating assembly, the locating assembly comprising: a locating pin disposed along the first rigid frame section; and a receptacle configured to receive the locating pin, the receptacle residing on the item of subsea equipment.
 29. The end kit of claim 18, further comprising a locating assembly, the locating assembly comprising: a locating pin disposed along the first rigid frame section; a key disposed along an outer diameter of the locating pin; a receptacle configured to receive the locating pin, the receptacle residing on the item of subsea equipment; and a shoulder along an inner diameter of the receptacle, the shoulder configured to receive the key and direct it into a slot.
 30. The end kit of claim 29, wherein the shoulder is bi-helically arranged.
 31. A method for installing a flying lead, the flying lead providing fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a marine body, the method comprising the steps of: placing a flying lead onto a vessel, the flying lead comprising: a first rigid end kit disposed at a first end of the flying lead, the first rigid end kit having a fluid communication line secured therein, a second rigid end kit disposed at a second end of the flying lead, the second rigid end kit also having a fluid communication line secured therein, and a substantially rigid and substantially linear midsection also having a fluid communication line disposed therein, the midsection fluid communication line having a first end in fluid communication with the fluid communication line of the first end kit, and a second end in fluid communication with the fluid communication line of the second end kit, and wherein each of the first and second end kits is configured to be landed into a receptacle at a respective first and second item of subsea equipment by lowering the flying lead into the marine body with a spreader bar; locating the vessel at a selected location generally above the first and second items of subsea equipment; releasably securing the flying lead to a spreader bar; lowering the spreader bar and connected flying lead into the marine body; positioning the first end kit above the first item of subsea equipment; landing the first end kit into the first item of subsea equipment; establishing fluid communication between the fluid communication line of the first end kit, and the first item of subsea equipment; positioning the second end kit above the second item of subsea equipment; landing the second end kit into the second item of subsea equipment; establishing fluid communication between the fluid communication line of the second end kit, and the second item of subsea equipment, thereby establishing fluid communication between the first and second items of subsea equipment.
 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the first end kit and the second end kit each further comprises: at least one rigid frame section; a connector disposed on the at least one rigid frame section for receiving a releasable connection with the spreader bar; and a junction plate also disposed on the at least one rigid frame section, and configured to land into a junction plate receptacle in an item of subsea equipment.
 33. The method of claim 31, wherein: the communication line of the first end kit is in fluid communication with the junction plate receptacle on the first end kit; and the communication line of the second end kit is in fluid communication with the junction plate receptacle on the second end kit.
 34. The method of claim 31, wherein: each junction plate is a multi-coupler junction plate having multiple receptacles for receiving fluid communication lines; the first end kit comprises at least two fluid communication lines; the second end kit comprises at least two fluid communication lines; and the midsection comprises at least two fluid communication line.
 35. The method of claim 31, wherein: the first end kit further comprises a locating pin configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and the second end kit further comprises a locating pin configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the second item of subsea equipment.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein: the locating pin of the first end kit has a first end connected to the at least one rigid frame section of the first end kit, and a second end configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and the locating pin of the second end kit has a first end connected to the at least one rigid frame section of the second end kit, and a second end configured to land into a locating pin receptacle at the second item of subsea equipment.
 37. The method of claim 36, wherein: the locating pin of the first end kit further comprises a key dimensioned to land on and to ride along a shoulder of the locating pin receptacle at the first item of subsea equipment; and the locating pin of the second end kit further comprises a key dimensioned to land on and to ride along a bi-helical shoulder of the locating pin receptacle at the second item of subsea equipment.
 38. The method of claim 31, further comprising the step of: releasing the flying lead from the spreader bar.
 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the step of releasing the flying lead from the spreader bar is conducted before the step of establishing fluid communication between the fluid communication line of the first end kit and the first item of subsea equipment.
 40. The method of claim 31, wherein the first item of subsea equipment is selected from the group consisting of an umbilical end termination, a subsea distribution unit, a subsea tree and a manifold.
 41. The method of claim 31, further comprising the step of: delivering fluid from the first item of subsea equipment to the second item of subsea equipment through the flying lead.
 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the fluid is selected from the group consisting of hydraulic control fluid, chemical treatment fluid, and gas for gas lift valves.
 43. The method of claim 42, wherein: the fluid is a gas for gas lift valves, and the gas is transmitted through a communication line having a diameter greater than 1 inch.
 44. The method of claim 42, wherein the chemical treatment fluid is methanol.
 45. The method of claim 31, wherein the step of establishing fluid communication between the fluid communication line of the first end kit, and the first item of subsea equipment, is accomplished by using an ROV after the junction plate on the first item of subsea equipment has gravitationally landed into the receptacle on the first item of subsea equipment.
 46. A flying lead for providing fluid communication between a first item of subsea equipment and a second item of subsea equipment in a marine body, the flying lead comprising: a substantially rigid and substantially linear midsection, the midsection having a first end and a second opposing end, and having a hydraulic line disposed therein; a first end kit disposed at a first end of the midsection, the first end kit having a steel-encased hydraulic line therein in fluid communication with the hydraulic line of the midsection; a second end kit disposed at a second end of the midsection, the second end kit also having a steel-encased hydraulic line therein and also being in fluid communication with the hydraulic line of the midsection; and wherein the hydraulic lines of the midsection, the first end kit and the second end kit each have an inner diameter of at least one inch. 